My 2024 Winter Skincare Routine

Skincare
Written By Alison Dempsey

As the temperatures drop and indoor heating rises, skin tends to become drier, tighter, and more prone to irritation. Here’s how I navigate winter with a science-backed skincare routine to keep my skin hydrated and glowing through the colder months.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Morning Routine

1. Start with a lukewarm, short shower
Hot water might feel amazing on a cold morning, but it strips your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. I stick to lukewarm water and limit showers to under 10 minutes to maintain my skin barrier’s integrity.

2. Gentle body cleansing
I use Dove Sensitive Body Wash, which is formulated to cleanse while preserving the skin’s natural moisture barrier. For my face, I stick with CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, a non-stripping formula rich in ceramides and hyaluronic acid.

3. Lock in moisture immediately after showering
Timing is everything. I apply CeraVe Healing Ointment within three minutes of stepping out of the shower. The skin is most receptive to hydration when it’s slightly damp, and this occlusive seals in moisture. I always tap dry my skin with a towel rather than rubbing, as friction can exacerbate dryness and irritation.

4. Face skincare

  • Toner: I prep my skin with Caudalie Beauty Elixir, a long-time favorite that refreshes and hydrates while offering antioxidant benefits.

  • Vitamin C Serum: My go-to is SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic, an evidence-based formula that brightens, protects against free radicals, and boosts collagen production.

  • Hydration Boost: I follow up with Cicaplast Gel. Its key ingredients, like panthenol and madecassoside, calm and repair dry, irritated skin. I’ve tried other hydrating serums like SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier but always come back to this.

  • Moisturizer: I finish with Avene Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream, which soothes and nourishes my skin with its postbiotic-rich formula.

5. On-the-go hydration
Throughout the day, I rely on Tower 28 SOS Spray, which contains hypochlorous acid. This antimicrobial ingredient reduces inflammation and refreshes skin, particularly if it feels tight or wind-chapped.

Evening Routine

1. Cleanse thoroughly
To remove makeup and sunscreen, I start with Emma Hardie Cleansing Balm. It melts away impurities while leaving my skin soft and hydrated. I follow this with CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser for a double cleanse.

2. Active ingredients
I rotate between these powerhouse actives:

  • Altreno (0.05% tretinoin lotion): A prescription retinoid that smooths fine lines and treats acne.

  • The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution: A gentle chemical exfoliant for glow and texture improvement.

  • Biologique Recherche Lotion P50: A cult-favorite exfoliating toner that I’m currently out of but plan to restock soon.

If you’re new to active ingredients, check out my post on skin cycling.

3. Eye cream
I apply SkinBetter EyeMax AlphaRet Overnight Eye Cream, which contains a retinoid and peptides to target fine lines and dark circles while being gentle enough for the delicate eye area.

3. Deep hydration
For my nighttime moisturizer, I alternate between:

4. Occlusive finishing touch
I seal everything in with CeraVe Healing Ointment. It’s my winter MVP, locking in hydration overnight and preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). I even have it on Amazon subscription! Cerave, sponsor me! LOL

Winter Skincare Benefits and Science

  • Hydration and Barrier Protection: Products like CeraVe Healing Ointment and Avene Cicalfate prevent TEWL and strengthen the skin’s natural defense.

  • Actives for Resurfacing: Alternating between retinoids and exfoliants ensures smooth, radiant skin without overstripping.

  • Antioxidants: Vitamin C combats oxidative stress caused by UV rays, which are still a concern during winter.

  • Hypochlorous Acid Spray: A quick spritz during the day soothes and hydrates skin while protecting against inflammation.

Alison Dempsey
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